Owning a dachshund puppy can be life-changing and also a big responsibility. Are you thinking of getting a dachshund puppy and it’s your first time owning any puppy?
But if you are unsure if you should get one or not, then you are at the right place, we will be discussing all the pros and cons of owning a Doxie for the first timers.
When I was little my grandparents owned a pug named “Rocky”, he was like a family member to us and was the only interaction I had with a dog.
But after the marriage when we decided to own a dog, it was a completely new thing for both of us because we dont have any prior knowledge of it.
So we started seeing different dog breeds in our neighborhood, at breeding centers, and on social media to find out which one we should get.
After doing a lot of research we decided to get a Dachshund puppy. I was excited to be a parent of a cute doxie.
The first day when our dog entered our home it felt like an angel was coming my way. I opened my arms and welcomed her.
Trust me it was challenging to keep up with our dog because she is an all-time energetic dog, But as time passes by you start to understand your dog’s likes and dislikes, how to play with them, and train them.
In the end, it all gets easy to handle a doxie. And to answer the question “Is owning a dachshund good for first-time owners?”
“Yes,” you can be a great parent of a dachshund. But before heading to the conclusion we would like to share some of the aspects (good & bad) of owning a doxie based on our personal experiences.
How Is It Like Owning a Dachshund
Training
It is important to train your dachshund early when he is a puppy. But because of their stubborn nature, sometimes is it challenging to train them. They are intelligent little individuals and quite energetic when it’s time to play.
The best way to train them is by giving them treats every time they complete a task or follow a command. Remember dachshunds are fast learners with consistent training they will move on your commands.
Keep in mind when they don’t follow commands don’t get annoyed or punish them, you need to keep yourself calm because they are sensitive little angels.
Food
A nutritious balanced diet is one of the most important things for your dachshund’s well-being. Doxies can get overweight easily if not monitored correctly.
You already know they have elongated spinal cord and an overweight doxie is prone to back problems. Dont get fooled by their cute face asking for more and more food.
Give them a properly balanced diet as directed by your veterinarian. You have to keep an eye on him every time he is chewing.
Hair Care/ Grooming
Dachshunds have three types of hair coats smooth, longhaired, and wire-haired each of them needs frequent brushing depending on the coat thickness.
Dachshunds dont shed much, with a little bit of wash and brushing they look handsome. Only use good quality products whether it is a shampoo or a conditioner.
Trimming overgrown nails is important once a month if not then they can damage or scratch furniture and other household stuff.
It is best practice to brush, comb, and trim overgrown beards, and eyebrows once or twice a week.
Exercise
Exercise is as important as eating food for your doxie, it doesn’t matter if their size is small, they need a proper exercise routine for stronger bones and muscles.
Staying fit is most important for dachshunds to avoid any back injury. A daily 40-50 min long walk is enough for your dog other than that you can also give them toys that promote mental growth.
Dachshunds are active and energetic dog breeds sometimes when they are excited they try to jump and run up and down the stairs, if not monitored they might suffer back and joint injuries.
Health
Dachshunds come in two variants Standard (16-32 pounds) and miniature (11 pounds) there are not many differences other than the size.
Dachshunds have pretty good immune systems that make them a healthy dog breed. With a balanced diet and proper and regular exercises, doxies can live up to 12-16 years approx.
Dachshunds need moderate mental stimulation to stay fit, happy, and healthy. You can keep their mind busy with some toys that require your dog’s problem-solving abilities.
If not given any tools for their brain exercises, they will find their sport like digging in your backyard or chasing birds, etc.
Challenging Aspects Of Owning a Dachshund
Vocalization
Doxies are hunting dog breeds, it’s in their nature to howl and bark. But sometimes it becomes a headache when they start singing unnecessarily.
We can see them howling in particular situations like when some stranger approaches or listening to siren sounds or sometimes if they are ill or physically hurt.
And our doxies sometimes even bark looking at a water fountain, birds, or trees. I think our dog is broken, just kidding. To address excessive howling you have to find out the triggers and try to eliminate them.
Separation Anxiety
Doxies love to be around their owners and with time their affection starts to grow stronger. But when you leave your dachshunds for even a few minutes, they start to get anxious and feel like they are being abandoned by the owner.
Regular Exercises
Dachshunds are an active dog breed, they need regular exercise to stay away from being overweight. Being overweight for a doxie is like a curse because it may lead to intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).
If not taken care of properly it becomes challenging to handle your dog. Take extra precautions while training your dog, don’t let your dog do activities that might put strain on their back like jumping or running on stairs.
Conclusion
Owning a dachshund is not just a blessing but also a big responsibility. Their life depends on you for food, shelter, and everything they need.
Before welcoming the puppy you need to make a proper space for the puppy and make sure it is clean & comfortable and free from any unnecessary items.
Make sure you provide quality food, a balanced diet, and regular exercises that promote their health and wellness.
Your dog’s well-being is in your hands, show them love and affection by spending time with them.
And if you are considering being a dachshund parent, go ahead! But before that do deep research on their behavior and their needs and ask yourself if can you fulfill them.
It’s not just a dog, it is your child, you need to understand the commitment of owning a Doxie.